As the impact of Corona Virus grows in the service sector, key voices from the industry offer comment and advice on the current situation.

The last 72 hours have seen significant changes across the globe as the effect of Corona Virus (Covid-19) begins to take hold. Restrictions at borders, regional lock downs and a decrease in product demand are affecting the service sector.

EXTRAORDINARY TIMES 

We are operating in extraordinary times and as well as acting in the now we should also look to the future, Bill Pollock explains. "Today, we are all experiencing a global medical 9/11," he says. "However, as in the past, life goes on, business goes on, and service must go on, as well. Yet, the brunt of this need will first be manifested in the immediacy, as businesses of all types struggle to follow the pandemic recommendations - either mandatory, or voluntarily but once the pandemic becomes contained and controlled, the post-pandemic aftermath will likely require an even greater response from services organizations of all types."

The current situation will inevitably be a challenging one for all service directors, most of whom will never have experienced a period like this and it does provide the opportunity to thrive in the most testing of environments. Yet, first and foremost the wellbeing of staff, remains the key focus. “The safety and health is your first priority," urges Nick Frank from Si2 Partners and Head of the UK Service Community. "Then be positive and use the situation to find new ways of solving customer problems.” It's a sentiment echoed by Pollock. "The thing to remember is that service will always be required; and service organizations will always need to be innovative, responsive and cooperative in all they do moving forward."

As the situation develops service professionals will have to draw on theses values to succeed in what will be one of the most challenging periods of their careers.